Raymond Butler, 28, Fatally Wounded in Vehicle Near Gibson and Poland Avenues During Early-Morning Youngstown Gunfire Incident; Community Left Reeling Amid Ongoing Violence and Pleas for Justice

Youngstown Mourns the Loss of Raymond Butler After He Is Found Unresponsive in Vehicle Following Gunfire; Community Urges Justice, Safety Reforms

YOUNGSTOWN, OHIO — What began as a quiet, early Sunday morning in Youngstown swiftly turned into a devastating chapter in the city’s ongoing struggle with gun violence, as 28-year-old Raymond Butler, a well-known and deeply loved member of the community, was found gravely wounded in the driver’s seat of his vehicle near Gibson Street and Poland Avenue. The tragic incident, which occurred just after 3:30 a.m., has shaken the community and left many searching for answers.

According to an official report issued by the Youngstown Police Department (YPD), emergency units responded to distress calls regarding gunshots and a man slumped behind the wheel of a vehicle. When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered Butler in critical condition, his vehicle marred by signs of violence. Emergency medical personnel were immediately dispatched, but despite their best efforts, Butler was declared deceased at the scene.

As the city awakens to yet another tragic loss, emotions ranging from sorrow to outrage are flooding through local neighborhoods. Residents, friends, and family members are mourning a man they describe as kind, driven, and devoted to his loved ones.

The Scene of the Tragedy

The incident occurred near the intersection of Gibson Street and Poland Avenue, an area known both for its residential significance and increasing struggles with sporadic violence. Several residents reported hearing multiple gunshots around 3:30 a.m., followed by a chilling silence. Witnesses say they initially mistook the sounds for fireworks until they saw flashing red and blue lights converging at the scene.

“When I looked out my window, I saw officers running up to the car. They were yelling for help. That’s when I knew something terrible had happened,” said Angela Simmons, a local resident who lives just feet from the intersection. “It wasn’t just another crime scene—it was someone’s son, someone’s brother.”

Investigators worked well into the morning, cordoning off the area with yellow tape and scouring for shell casings, security camera footage, and witness testimony. Dozens of residents, some in pajamas and robes, stood silently nearby, watching as investigators moved about the vehicle with flashlights and cameras.

Who Was Raymond Butler?

Described by friends as “the heartbeat of his family,” Raymond Butler was more than just a name in a police report. He was a 28-year-old lifelong resident of Youngstown, a graduate of East High School, and an aspiring entrepreneur who had been working toward opening his own auto detailing business. He was known throughout the community for his friendly demeanor, tireless work ethic, and devotion to his younger siblings.

“He had just talked about getting his business license